Undergraduate Program

Research Opportunities

The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers a wide range of research opportunities for undergraduates. Although the bulk of the opportunities are only available to juniors and seniors, the department does occasionally offer positions for freshmen and sophomores as well.

How to Get Started

Generally, the best way for a student to get started in undergraduate research is to do well in their coursework. They can also network with other students, attend seminars and colloquia, and chat with professors.

For many projects, some knowledge of a computer language such as C++ or Java is useful. Students should spend time learning about the research done in the department as well as departments doing research in similar areas such as optics, chemistry, earth and environmental science, and mechanical engineering.

A good place to start is the faculty listing. This list includes faculty with joint appointments in other departments. After considering areas in which they might want to work, students should contact the appropriate professor(s) and request a meeting to discuss the professor’s research and the possibility of working with them.